Text reminders to overstayers

FOLLOWING on the scheme introduced on the Kennet & Avon Canal where boaters are being sent text messages when overstaying, the system is now being introduced in London.

To enforce the system CaRT is recruiting more enforcement officers, in an attempt to manage the limited mooring space in the capital.

Making mooring fairer

The Trust tells that the number of boats mooring on London's central waterways has risen 14% in the past year alone, with a steady rise over the past five years, with the new system being introduced to 'encourage greater movement of boats to make mooring fairer for everyone'.

This month the Trust will start to text message London's boaters when they've reached the maximum stay time on a 14 days towpath mooring, as a reminder that it's time to move on, though the enforcement officers will carry on with speaking face-to-face with overstaying boaters and leaving notices on boats.

Recruiting

The Trust has recently recruited an enforcement supervisor and an additional enforcement officer for London. Another enforcement officer vacancy is also being advertised to bring the London enforcement team back up to full strength, with it explaining:

"Enforcement is vital, especially in busy locations that are popular with boaters who may be having trouble getting to grips with the movement rules. The enforcement team enforces the rules so everyone is treated fairly, and also offers advice and guidance to boaters who run into difficulties."

New moorings

The Trust is also planning new moorings at Camden and Haggerston and along the Lee Navigation next to the Olympic Park.

This month a number of changes will be made to the visitor moorings in Paddington Basin, with bookable moorings at Rembrandt Gardens and a new water point.